About Emu Wealth

Meet Lucian Russ

CFP and Director of Emu Wealth

I started my career in 1996 in the City of London, lived and worked in South Africa, and eventually founded Emu Wealth here in Australia. Today, my focus is retirement – one of the most significant transitions in our lives – and helping reduce the overwhelm so people can step into this next stage with certainty.

I’ve always been a numbers person, but what truly drives me is working with people. Empowering my clients to feel calm, organised and in control is incredibly rewarding – and I enjoy the satisfaction that comes from changing their financial futures for the better.

As well as being a Certified Financial Planner and holding an Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning, I have a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities (Philosophy), bringing a big-picture perspective to the financial decisions that shape our lives. I’m based in the beautiful Henley Beach area of Adelaide, but work with clients around Australia. I also provide pro bono financial advice through Cancer Council, helping individuals and families navigate challenging circumstances.

Outside of work, I’m a proud dad to two teenage sons, and I’ve travelled to more than 70 countries. I share my expertise on TikTok to make retirement planning advice clearer and more accessible – because we all deserve to feel positive about what’s on the horizon.

What’s shaped my approach

My approach to financial advice has been shaped as much by life as it has by markets.

Growing up with a father who was a World War II veteran instilled in me a strong sense of resilience and perspective – something that continues to influence how I think about uncertainty, long-term planning and what really matters.

In 2005, I stepped away from the hectic pace of London life and moved to Cape Town, where I developed and ran an enterprise skills-based charity for a few years.

After relocating to Australia, I co-founded and led financial planning firm Ginn & Russ as part of the AMP network, growing the business into a successful practice with offices in Adelaide and Alice Springs. That chapter taught me a great deal about leadership, service and what clients truly value from their adviser – and ultimately led to the creation of Emu Wealth.

What has remained constant throughout my career is the opportunity to support people through some of life’s most important decisions.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me watching the English Premier League, listening to music, or sneaking in a video game session.

A couple of fun facts: I’ve run three marathons and played for my local professional football club, Bristol Rovers, until age 15.

Jen Degamo

Client Services Specialist

Jen is Emu Wealth’s Client Services Specialist and plays a key role in ensuring every client experience is seamless and well supported. With a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management and a background in hospitality, she brings a strong service mindset and a genuine commitment to care and attention to detail.

Outside of work, Jen enjoys travelling – particularly to sea, sand and sunshine destinations. She loves cooking and baking, often experimenting with new recipes, and has a keen interest in graphic and creative design.

Jen Degamo is not authorised to provide advice under the Cobalt Advisers Pty Ltd licence.

The experts in your corner

Nobody likes going it alone – especially when it comes to something as complex and essential as planning for retirement. Wherever you are in your journey, I’ll be your expert guide, offering trusted advice, clear strategy and ongoing management so your money continues working hard for you – long after you stop working.

Without a robust financial plan, retirement can feel uncertain. With so much conflicting information available, it’s hard to know where to begin. With decades of experience and a genuine passion for helping people in their 50s, 60s and beyond prepare for retirement, I create strategic plans tailored to your goals – and implement them efficiently, so you can focus on living well.

I specialise in simplifying the complex – bringing together superannuation, investments, tax and income planning into one coordinated strategy. You’ll understand how your plan works, why it works and what it means for your future – without the jargon.

Retirement isn’t just a financial event – it’s a major life transition. I don’t believe in one-off advice or set-and-forget strategies. I build long-term relationships with my clients, refining your plan as markets shift and life evolves. You’ll always know where you stand, understand your options, and feel confident that your retirement income supports the lifestyle you want.